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Venus Williams of the United States celebrates defeating Laura Siegemund of Germany during her third round Women’s Singles match on Day Six of the 2016 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 3, 2016 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
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Venus Williams of the United States celebrates defeating Laura Siegemund of Germany during her third round Women’s Singles match on Day Six of the 2016 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 3, 2016 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
Venus Williams turned pro at the young age of 14 in 1994. Initially, she was not a threat to anyone, however, her consistent growth led her to become one of the best tennis players in the world.
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However, with this success came many battles which she faced bravely with the help of her close ones. She recently collaborated with BetterHelp, a mental health platform to focus on the importance of having a healthy mindset.
She talked about the supportive inner circle and how one should not shy away from seeking professional help to get better.
Venus Williams propagates healthy mental being with a message
The seven-time grand slam champion faced many challenges during her career. She had to face a lot of criticism about the way she played or behaved or even looked. However, she placed value on having a close group of people who always supported her. She said, “It’s not something that comes by chance.”
She focused on the point where you have to find people who are good for you and supports you through all the trials in your life. She said. “You have to be intentional about it and you also have to be someone that people like being around too. I think that helps a lot.”
Williams collaborates with BetterHelp to promote mental well-being
Furthermore, she promoted seeking professional help when one wants to get better. Venus Williams said, “Everyone definitely should make mental health a priority.” She backed her argument with the obstacles that poor mental health brings to the table.
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Serena Williams (R) of the USA celebrates with her father Richard Williams and sister Venus Williams after her Ladies’ Singles final match against Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland on day twelve of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 7, 2012 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
She said, “If your mental health is not in a position that is allowing you to make you live your dreams and just live a regular life, then you aren’t able to be happy.” Concluding her statement, she said, “Being happy is one of the most underrated feelings.”
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The growing importance of mental health in tennis came up when in 2020 Naomi Osaka withdrew from French Open. She attributed the reason to her mental health and chose to draw out from the tour. After that, many players have come out and talked about their issues and their fight against it.
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Edited by
Jito Tenson